Best things to do in Japan: our favorite experiences
The experiences we recommend most in Japan: an early start at Fushimi Inari, Shibuya Sky at sunset, a night on Miyajima, an onsen, a tea ceremony and an omakase.
Japan has so much to see that the question isn't what to do, but what to prioritize. This is the short list of what we recommend most, taken from our route, with the practical trick for each one.
Fushimi Inari and Kiyomizu-dera, but early
Kyoto's two most famous sites fill up with people, and going early makes all the difference. At Fushimi Inari, arrive between 7:00 and 8:00 and climb part of the mountain: higher up there are fewer people and the atmosphere is much more special. The full hike takes about 2.5 hours, so bring water. Go to Kiyomizu-dera at around 8:00, and from there walk down through Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, one of the most beautiful walks in Kyoto.
Shibuya Sky at sunset
It's probably the best view of Tokyo: you're outdoors, with no glass, watching the sun set as the lights come on. Book ahead, especially for sunset, because tickets sell out fast.
Sleeping on Miyajima
When the day-trippers leave, from around 17:00 or 18:00, the island is left almost empty: you see the torii without crowds and walk around at a relaxed pace. It's a very different experience from visiting only during the day.
An onsen
If there's one thing you have to try, it's a Japanese hot spring bath. In the Fuji area, Oike Hotel, Fujiyama Onsen and Benifuji no Yu are good options, and in Kyoto, Funaoka Onsen is a very local experience. Remember to shower before you get in, and that many don't allow visible tattoos.
Nara and its deer
A day trip from Kyoto, one hour by train. The deer bow back if you bow to them, and the giant bronze Buddha at Todai-ji is striking in person.
Tea ceremony and omakase
A tea ceremony lasts about 30 to 45 minutes and usually comes with an English explanation; look for a traditional house, a machiya. For omakase, the €150 to €250 range is the best balance of quality and price, and it's worth booking 2 to 4 weeks ahead.
Don't try to see everything. It's better to enjoy each area properly than to cover it all.
Our recommendation
If you can only do three things: Fushimi Inari first thing, Shibuya Sky at sunset and a night on Miyajima. You'll find the full route in our 17-day Japan itinerary, and where to eat in where to eat in Japan.
Our favorite activities in Japan
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